The Bauer’s Story

The journey began over 60 years ago when John and Thecla Bauer assisted with the operation of a little white apple stand at the intersection of Highways 14 & 61 in La Crescent, Minnesota.

It wasn’t long after that when Bauer’s Market was born. As the business grew, so did the family. John and Thecla’s sons, Bruce and Gene, began working in the business. 

Family has been a big part of our success. Today, Bauer’s is owned and operated by Bruce, and his wife, Katrina.  Members of the third generation, Jessica Bauer and Kiel Bauer, are firmly rooted in the business as well.

The market and garden center has become a landmark in the La Crescent community. We are proud to support many community and school activities and events including La Crescent’s Applefest held every year in September.

Our Market and garden center is known for its quality selection and service. Open year-round, Bauer’s has something for everyone.

In 2019, Bauer’s Market & Garden Center was again voted “Best of the Best, Garden Center” by customers around the Coulee Region.  This is the third straight year we’ve received this award which started in 2017.  We are honored and want to extend our deepest thanks to our loyal friends and customers for your continued patronage and support.  Inspire your green thumb and visit us today!

In the spring, the garden center offers an outstanding selection of perennials, annuals, and vegetable and herb plants, hanging baskets, plus a host of garden accents and seasonal decor.

During summer, you will find a farm-fresh atmosphere with local produce including local strawberries, raspberries, sweet corn and more. By mid-July, the first of over fifty varieties of fresh, local apples signify the coming of fall.

Once the fall season begins, tour buses from near and far come to enjoy the bountiful fall harvest of apples, squash, potatoes, pumpkins, plus Amish jams and jellies, Wisconsin honey and cheeses, popcorn, and, of course, a delicious hand-dipped caramel apple!

The smell of fresh-cut Christmas trees and an array of colorful poinsettias provide a festive holiday touch. Holiday fruit baskets, featuring local apples, are always a gift of good taste!  As long cold winter days seem to last forever, you’ll always feel a sense of spring as the greenhouse provides relief to warmer days ahead. Wild bird seed and suet, citrus and apples are the most popular items from January through March.

A staple at Bauer’s throughout the years has been the custom-painted lawn statuary by long-time La Crescent resident, Mavis Millie.

Bauer’s Market is proud to be a part of the community and continues to be known for its quality selection and customer service.